Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Chamber honors Panhandle Alliance for Education as July's Business of the Month


The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce recognizes Panhandle Alliance for Education (PAFE) as the Business of the Month for their contributions to our community in education. PAFE was formed in 2002 by a small group of citizens concerned about their public schools and is modeled after local education foundations created over the last 15 years in thousands of communities across the United States. A common goal is to support public schools in our communities by raising money to enhance taxpayer-financed programs. A common focus is on quality education that raises achievement levels of all students.

“The role of PAFE is actually more than money, it’s supporting our kids, and our teachers, and our school administrators.”– Bill Berg

Idaho now ranks fiftieth of the fifty states in per capita spending for public education. This low ranking, coupled with problems that frequent rural small towns, moved several community leaders to take action. The Board of Directors is comprised of local business people, school district executives, teachers, parents, and grandparents. PAFE has had a positive impact on public education in north Idaho through the success of innovative programs and continuous support for improving education.

Please join the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce in congratulating PAFE for being honored as the Business of the Month and wishing them continued success. For more information, visit their website http://www.panhandlealliance.org.

In Photo: Chamber Ambassador Colleen Spickelmire, presents Business of the Month award to PAFE Executive Director Marcia Wilson, and PAFE Directors and Executive Committee members: Bill Berg, Chris Bessler, Mindy Cameron, Dick Cvitanich, Wendy Dunn, Barbara Eacret, Tracy Gibson, Geraldine Lewis, Roxie Lowther.